Vienna International Guide - Austrian Lifestyle, Travel, Arts, Culture

Get updated news about developments in Vienna's inter-cultural environment: lifestyle, travel destinations, art exhibitions, restaurant- & event-suggestions

Austrian Group Shows at Expo Real 2023 how Sustainable Real Estate Works

Sustainability was a big topic at this year's Expo Real in Munich. Many of the conferences, which again featured high-caliber participants, addressed the topic of ESG (Environmental Social Governance) in connection with the various aspects of the real estate industry.

Birgit Adelsberger · October 8, 2023

The Red Carpet for Art: Fair for Art Vienna 2023

From October 7 to 15, 2023 the "Fair for Art Vienna", the platform for modern and contemporary art, rolls out the red carpet for art again. For the seventh time, the art fair invites to the Aula der Wissenschaften in Vienna's Wollzeile, where more than 40 renowned art experts from Austria and Germany gather for a joint sales show.

September 15, 2023 · Updated: October 6, 2023; 10:09 · Sponsored Content

Nobel Prize in Physics 2023: Ferenc Krausz - From Vienna to Global Fame

The 2023 Nobel Prize in Physics has been awarded to Hungarian-Austrian physicist Ferenc Krausz, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to particle research and attosecond physics. The Nobel Committee made the announcement recently in Stockholm. Krausz shares the prestigious prize with his colleague Anne L'Huillier and his colleague Pierre Agostini.

October 4, 2023

Vienna Wins the "EU Organic Award": "Wiener Gusto" Named Best Organic Brand

The city of Vienna once again has a reason to celebrate. At this year's European Union Organic Awards, the city's food brand "Wiener Gusto" was named "Best Organic City". This important "EU Organic Award" was presented by the European Commission in a festive ceremony in Brussels. As a representative of the City of Vienna, Climate City Councillor Jürgen Czernohorszky proudly accepted the award.

September 26, 2023

New Start for the Repair Bonus: Safer, but with Longer Waiting Times

After an abrupt halt in the summer due to fraud, the repair bonus is now returning. In a revised version aimed at preventing fraud, customers can now apply for the bonus again. However, the security measures are associated with longer waiting times.

September 24, 2023

Vienna Wine Hiking Day: Pleasurable Hikes Through Vienna's Picturesque Vineyards

The autumnal splendor of Vienna's vineyards is calling! On September 23 and 24, 2023, the City of Vienna will once again open the doors to its traditional Wine Walk Day, a feast for all the senses. Learn more about Vienna wine culture!

September 18, 2023

Buying Real Estate in Austria - Things You Should Consider First

Not only in the capital Vienna, which is almost regularly awarded for its high quality of life, in many regions of Austria nature, culture and safety are felt everywhere in daily life and allow a certain lifestyle. That's why expats often choose to establish residence in Austria, even after their professional activities here have ended.

Birgit Adelsberger · September 15, 2023

Discrimination on the Housing Market: A Growing Problem in Austria

A recent SORA study conducted on behalf of the Ombud for Equal Treatment highlights a serious problem in Austria's real estate market: racism and discrimination. People with foreign-sounding names or accents have significantly fewer chances of being invited to view an apartment compared to people with typical Austrian names.

September 14, 2023

Green Peak Festival 2023: Austria's Pioneer for Climate Protection and Entrepreneurship

The renowned Green Peak Festival, which has established itself in the heart of Vienna as Austria's flagship event for sustainability and entrepreneurship, impressed once again. For the second year in a row, over 800 participants gathered to network, exchange ideas and discuss the latest developments in sustainability. The project was supported this year by the Embassy of Israel.

September 11, 2023

New Regulations in Vienna: Year-round Outdoor Cafés and Green Parklets

In an innovative response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Vienna has adopted new regulations for catering establishments and public lounges. Both Schanigärten (Viennese Outdoor Cafés) and the green parklets known as "Grätzloasen" are now allowed to remain in public spaces all year round.

September 10, 2023

Austria's Foreign Cultural Conference 2023: A Look into the Past and the Future

The Austrian Foreign Ministry is celebrating a special anniversary. For 50 years, half a century, it has represented Austria's cultural heritage and current artistic developments abroad. At this year's Foreign Cultural Conference reception, the focus was not only on the past but above all on the future.

September 10, 2023

Israeli Ambassador Received Federal Association Medal for Services to the Jewish Community in Austria

In a moving ceremony, Israeli Ambassador Mordechai Rodgold was awarded the "Great Golden Medal of Honor" by the Federal Association of Jewish Communities in Austria. This honor not only marked a remarkable recognition of his work but was also the first time that an Israeli ambassador was awarded this medal. In the presence of leading community representatives and dignitaries, the award ceremony became both an emotional farewell and a celebration of the close ties between Ambassador Rodgold and the communities in Vienna and throughout Austria.

September 6, 2023

House of History Austria Sets an Example with Special Guided Tours to the "Hitler Balcony"

The House of Austrian History (hdgö) is adding two special tours at short notice to its program, which will take a look at the so-called "Hitler Balcony". The tours will take place on September 7 and 14, 2023, and will be led by Director Monika Sommer under the title "(K)ein Hitler-Balkon" (No Hitler Balcony).

September 4, 2023

Austria's Positive Path Towards Citizenship for Descendants of National Socialism Victims

Austria took an important step in October 2019 to live up to its historical responsibility. Parliament made it possible for the descendants of persecutees of National Socialism to obtain citizenship through a "notification". This significant amendment to the Citizenship Law came into force on September 1, 2020. In view of the third anniversary of this change, Foreign Minister Schallenberg draws a positive conclusion.

September 3, 2023

Ceremonial Reception for the Armed Forces Day of the Republic of Türkiye

Given the Armed Forces Day of the Republic of Türkiye, the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey, H.E. Ozan Ceyhun, and Military Attaché Colonel Serdar Mercan invited to a reception. The event took place at the Turkish Embassy in Vienna and also marked the first diplomatic meeting after the summer break.

August 31, 2023

Real Estate Prices in Austria Increased: Housing Increasingly Less Affordable

The cost of residential real estate in Austria has risen dramatically in recent years, significantly affecting affordability for many households. According to a recent analysis conducted by UniCredit Bank Austria, residential property prices in the euro area have risen faster than incomes. Austria has been particularly affected by this development, where property prices have actually fallen by almost 40 percent compared with incomes.

August 31, 2023

Jewish New Year Concert at the Vienna Konzerthaus Celebrates the 75th Anniversary of the State of Israel

The Vienna Israelite Community organizes the concert, which takes place within the framework of the 75th anniversary of the State of Israel. All performing artists have a connection to Israel and have now been introduced.

August 28, 2023

Vienna Airport Soars: A Remarkable Recovery and Vision for the Future in 2023

Flughafen Wien AG, the company that manages the Vienna International Airport, celebrates an impressive recovery in the first half of 2023 with significant growth in passenger numbers, revenue, and profit for the period. With an increase in passenger numbers of 44.3%, the Vienna location reached 91% of the passenger level before the Corona crisis in 2019. In the entire Group, the figure is even 94%.

August 27, 2023

Austrian Integration Fund Language Portal: Innovative German Learning with over 5,000 Exercises

The newly launched ÖIF language portal presents itself as the largest learning platform in the German-speaking world. Over 25,000 people use the services of the Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF) every day to improve their German language skills.

August 23, 2023

Timetable Chaos for Rail Travel in Europe: A Step Backwards

The idea of cross-border rail travel across Europe sounds tempting, but the reality is often different. Despite the expansion of night trains, the situation for rail travelers in 2023 has not improved as hoped.

August 22, 2023

Mowing Sheep Enrich Flora and Fauna of Vienna's Danube Island

As part of a pioneering EU project, the Danube Island's new and gentle inhabitants have proven to be surprisingly efficient lawnmowers. Around 70 sheep find a temporary home on the Danube Island during the summer months. As natural lawnmowers, they help to revitalize the island's flora and fauna and promote biodiversity.

August 21, 2023

Europe's Largest Flower Show: 70 Years of Floral Art in Tulln

A tradition that began 70 years ago with a flower parade on Tulln's main square has developed into Europe's largest flower show: The International Horticultural Fair Tulln, which takes place from August 31 to September 4, celebrates the anniversary under the motto "The best of 70 years - the great anniversary flower show".

August 17, 2023

Austrian Museum of Applied Arts Presents New Exhibition "Critical Consumption"

The fashion industry is characterized by constantly changing trends, rapid production under often precarious conditions, and the flood of new collections. At the same time, this leads to a massive waste of resources and a threat to ecosystems through textile waste. In light of these issues, the Austrian Museum of Applied Arts (MAK) exhibits "CRITICAL CONSUMPTION" (Aug. 30, 2023-Sept. 8, 2024) focuses on the fashion industry and its influence on consumer behavior, manufacturing processes, and sustainability efforts.

August 7, 2023

Foto Arsenal Vienna: Exhibition Openings with Gundula Schulze Eldowy and Mari Katayama

Following the successful conclusion of the tenth Foto Vienna, organized for the first time by Foto Arsenal Vienna, the new Center for Photography and Lens-Based Media kicks off the exhibition fall with two captivating first presentations in Austria.

August 7, 2023

Renaturation of the Wien River: Green Vision of the Wien River Oasis

The Vienna Greens presented their plans for the renaturation of the Vienna River at a press conference. Non-executive City Councilor Peter Kraus and City Councilor Kilian Stark presented the "Green Vision of the Vienna River Oasis".

August 7, 2023

Austrian and Korean Foreign Ministers Celebrate 60 Years of Diplomatic Ties at Salzburg Festival

On the occasion of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Austria and the Republic of Korea, Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin visited the Salzburg Festival at the invitation of Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg. The high-ranking politicians took the opportunity to discuss the good diplomatic and economic relations between their countries and to explore further opportunities for cooperation.

July 30, 2023

150 Years of Vienna Water: Exciting and Refreshing Holiday Offers for Families

The summer heat is here, and with temperatures rising, it's more important than ever to drink enough water and stay refreshed.

July 27, 2023

Palais Lobkowitz: An Architectural Jewel in the Heart of Vienna Invites you to Discover it

Just a few steps from the Hofburg Palace sits one of Vienna's oldest and most impressive Baroque palaces: the Palais Lobkowitz. Built between 1689 and 1694, the magnificent building has housed the Theater Museum since 1991 and has attracted art and culture enthusiasts worldwide.

July 27, 2023

The 43rd Saalfelden Jazz Festival Gathers International Jazz Lovers and Virtuosos

The small town of Saalfelden in Salzburger Land will once again be transformed into a vibrant meeting place for the international jazz scene from August 17 to 20, 2023. Music makers, players, connoisseurs, and lovers of improvised music from all over the world will flock to the 43rd Saalfelden Jazz Festival, which will feature musical highlights and exciting discoveries for four days. Six official stages in the town, as well as the "Mountain Tracks" in the great outdoors, offer a program that will delight every music lover.

July 25, 2023

"Wiener Gusto" in the Final for the EU Organic Awards 2023

Vienna is a proud finalist in this year's EU Organic Awards in the category "Best Organic City" thanks to its city-owned food brand "Wiener Gusto".

July 25, 2023

Plants as Climate-Friendly Air Conditioning: City of Vienna Promotes Greening of Buildings

The positive effect of green buildings on the climate is undisputed. To promote the implementation of green buildings, the City of Vienna provides generous subsidies of up to € 20,200. Interested parties can obtain free advice on this subject from Eco Counselling (DIE UMWELTBERATUNG) in Vienna.

July 23, 2023

Salzburg Summit: International Conference Brings Together Top Politicians, Scientists and Business Leaders

July 26, 2023, marks the start of the 4th Salzburg Summit, a high-profile international business and future conference that will take place on the fringes of the renowned Salzburg Festival. The event will be formally opened by EU Budget Commissioner Johannes Hahn and the President of the Federation of Austrian Industries (IV), Georg Knill. In light of recent global challenges, including a war on European soil and the global COVID-19 pandemic, the summit is dedicated to the goal of a sustainable future for Europe amid uncertainty.

July 23, 2023

Exploring Vienna's Sustainable Solutions: Unusual Excursion Tips by MA 48

Waste prevention and waste separation as well as a clean city are among the central goals and concerns of street cleaning in Vienna (MA 48). MA 48 invites all interested parties to visit its facilities free of charge.

July 18, 2023

Austrian Museum Award for the Sigmund Freud Museum

The renowned Sigmund Freud Museum has been awarded the Austrian Museum Prize 2023, Secretary of State for Art and Culture Andrea Mayer announced today. The award, which is endowed with 20,000 euros, is presented annually by the Museum Advisory Board of the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Civil Service, and Sport for outstanding achievements in the field of museum work.

July 17, 2023

Saving the Historical Habsburg Clothing Brand

The insolvency of the renowned Salzburg-based clothing manufacturer Habsburg in May came as a shock to lovers of the fine label of down-to-earth solidity. Two experienced entrepreneurs from the fashion and lifestyle industry have made the rescue of Habsburg their personal affair of the heart and have thus committed themselves to the continuation of the brand.

July 12, 2023

Wealth of the Richest Austrians Grows Despite Global Trends

In its latest issue, the business magazine "trend" publishes its annual ranking of the "100 richest Austrians". In contrast to some global studies, which show a slight decline in the ownership of the super-rich, Austria shows a different development. The assets of the 100 wealthiest individuals and families increased by five percent to a total of around 210 billion euros.

July 11, 2023

EU Skepticism in Austria Underpinned by Eurobarometer Survey

According to the latest Eurobarometer survey, Austrians continue to be among the biggest EU skeptics in Europe. Only 35 percent regard the EU as a whole as "positive," while the EU average is 45 percent. Just under a third of respondents in Austria are in favor of EU enlargement, while across Europe half are in favor.

July 10, 2023

U.S. Ambassador Victoria Kennedy Hosts Independence Day Reception

U.S. Ambassador Victoria Kennedy hosted a festive reception at her residence to mark Independence Day. The event was attended by numerous friends and partners to celebrate this significant day together.

July 10, 2023

Diplomatic Trip to Styria: Between Business Location and Chocolate Paradise

After a break of several years due to COVID - Pandemic, the traditional diplomatic excursion finally took place again. This time, the ambassadors based in Austria had the opportunity to get to know the many facets of the local culture, innovative strength, and culinary delights in Styria.

June 29, 2023

Unveiling Rimbaud's Journey: Discovering the Photographer-Poet at the French Embassy in Vienna

The French Embassy in Austria and the Institut français d'Autriche invite you to discover the artist Arthur Rimbaud in the light of this unknown chapter of his work. Read more about Arthur Rimbaud, the famous French poet, adventurer, and businessman. Today he is considered one of the most influential French poets.

June 26, 2023

Austria Takes Responsibility: Recommendations for Dealing with Art Objects from Colonial Contexts Presented

At a press conference, State Secretary for Art and Culture Andrea Mayer, together with Jonathan Fine, Director of the Vienna World Museum, presented the recommendations for action of an international advisory panel on the handling of art objects from a colonial context in Austrian federal museums.

June 20, 2023

EU Culture Salon Invites to a Discussion on the Future of Europe with Caroline de Gruyter

On June 27, the EU Culture Salon, a new series of events organized by the Representation of the European Commission, will take place at the House of the European Union. The guest will be the renowned journalist and author Caroline de Gruyter, whose book "The Habsburg Empire - Inspiration for Europe?" has caused a sensation.

June 20, 2023

U.S. Embassy in Austria Hosted Reception for Commitment to LGBTQI+ Rights

U.S. Ambassador Victoria Kennedy hosted a reception at her residence, inviting Austrian LGBTQI+ leaders and activists. In her address, the Ambassador emphasized the U.S. commitment to advancing human rights, particularly equality for LGBTQI+ individuals.

June 12, 2023

Anniversary Celebration at MuseumsQuartier: 30 Years of the Vienna World Conference on Human Rights

The Austrian Foreign Ministry, together with the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, is organizing a series of high-profile events in Vienna's MuseumsQuartier to mark the 30th anniversary of the Vienna World Conference on Human Rights. The events are intended to draw attention to the importance of human rights in times of global crises and to make it clear that they are the cornerstone of democracy, peace, and justice.

June 4, 2023

Peter Sloterdijk on Europe at the Austrian Integration Fund Pentecostal Dialogue

As part of the 11th Styrian "Geist & Gegenwart" Pentecost Dialogue held at Seggau Castle, the renowned German philosopher Peter Sloterdijk appeared as a guest speaker of the Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF). Sloterdijk elaborated in the panel on Europe, Ukraine, and the challenges of nation-states.

May 31, 2023

Festive Opening of the Interactive Exhibition "Experience Europe" in Vienna

In Vienna's Rotenturmstraße, the interactive permanent exhibition "Experience Europe" was opened with a great ceremony. Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen and EU Parliament President Roberta Metsola, together with high-ranking guests, cut the opening ribbon to this multimedia show.

May 29, 2023

IGGÖ Supports Demands for the Fight Against Racist Attacks on Muslims

The Islamic Religious Community in Austria (IGGÖ) confirms the established link between the reported cases and certain political events. Against this background, the IGGÖ supports the demands of the Documentation Center to the Austrian Federal Government to develop and implement the National Action Plan against Racism, which has already been announced in the government program 2019, as soon as possible.

May 23, 2023

Gazprom Austria Inventory is Now Being Auctioned Off

The Gazprom subsidiary in Austria has become insolvent, and now its assets are being auctioned off at the Aurena auction house. The offer includes 240 exhibits and the purchase of Russian business memorabilia.

May 22, 2023

International Soldiers' Pilgrimage to Lourdes: Austrian Military Delegation for Peace

The 63rd International Soldiers' Pilgrimage to Lourdes is taking place under the motto "Let us build a church here". An Austrian delegation led by Military Bishop Werner Freistetter traveled to France with 289 pilgrims.

May 21, 2023

Diplomats From All Over the World Compete in Soccer Tournament in Vienna

Last weekend, an extraordinary soccer tournament took place in Vienna: Diplomats from different countries competed against each other on the green pitch. The event brought diplomacy and sports together for the first time in a unique way.

May 15, 2023